Thai Basil Leaf

What is a Thai basil leaf? 

One kind of basil that comes from Southeast Asia is Thai basil. The herb has a somewhat anise-flavored flavor and is savory and peppery. It is regarded as an essential component in Southeast Asian cooking due to its unique taste and scent. The herb is used in curries, stir-fries, and salads.

Additionally, it is a garnish for dishes like pho. Thai basil leaves are a superb garnish since they are more robust than other types. Thai basil leaves are pointed, slender, and have sharp edges. Their green foliage often features specks of a rich purple color. 

How do I use Thai basil leaves?

Thai basil sprigs that are still fresh may be chewed on with spicy salads and chili dips, or presented with veggie platters. It is also a popular garnish for soup and may be used to salads and vegetable meals.

Thai basil leaf benefits:

It may help improve digestion and aid in weight reduction when added to smoothies or drinks. According to research, Thai basil has a high antioxidant content as well as antiviral, anticancer, antibacterial, and antifungal properties.

◉ Protects against cell damage: Antioxidants, which are organic substances that protect your body's cells, are abundant in basil leaves. When your cells have an excessive amount of free radicals, oxidative stress occurs. Your body produces free radicals in reaction to inflammation and stress. According to Culbertson, environmental exposures such as cigarette smoke and ultraviolet (UV) radiation may also produce free radicals. However, antioxidants serve as a barrier against free radicals and the harm they may do to one's health.

◉ Helps manage blood pressure and cholesterol. For years, practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) have used basil to treat cardiovascular illness, and with good reason. Studies on nonhuman subjects have shown that it may lower high blood pressure and raise cholesterol.

Additionally, according to Culbertson, "holy basil contains eugenol, an oil that may help lower blood pressure by relaxing your blood vessels." "Several forms of basil, including extracts, leaves, and leaf powders, have been tested in studies.".

◉ Improves blood sugar levels: Studies on humans and in the lab have shown basil's unique capacity to control blood sugar. For instance, in experimental models of diabetes, researchers found that basil extract significantly lowered blood sugar levels. Similar results were shown with holy basil extract in another nonhuman investigation.

Although human research is still in its infancy, Culbertson notes that it has already produced some intriguing results regarding type 2 diabetes and blood sugar control. "However, additional study is required to completely comprehend the effects of various basil varieties on blood sugar health.".

◉ Boosts mental health: Basil essential oils have been shown in a lab to have the ability to reduce sadness, stress, and age-related memory loss. According to Culbertson, "the results were so good that researchers decided it was time to see if basil could improve Alzheimer's disease symptoms." "After more research is done, it will be interesting to better understand basil's potential.".

Where can I buy Thai basil leaves?

Buy thai basil leaf from the health food store in the USA, Alive Herbals.

Thai basil leaf information (at a glance):